IN PICS: Men march in Durban for urgent action on gender-based violence

A march took place in Durban recently, advocating for immediate government intervention on gender-based violence and femicide. The demonstration also emphasized other issues, such as stricter border controls, reserving the informal economy for South Africans, reforming the Road Accident Fund Act, and enhancing security in high-risk zones.

Political groups like ActionSA, MK Party, and the IFP participated in the event. President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the GBVF issue on Tuesday evening, announcing four urgent actions: a national case-recovery audit, plans to address forensic backlog and prioritize sample collection, municipal safety audits within 60 days, and stricter enforcement of liquor laws.

These measures came amid a surge in GBVF cases, particularly in Gauteng following the discovery of 11 women's bodies in Ekurhuleni since July. Xolani Zuma, CEO of SA First Forum, remarked that the march differed, but the issues remained the same. He emphasized the urgency for immediate government action, stating that ending the annual cycle of women's deaths was a clear demand.

Zuma further stated that the protest was not merely a display but a call for practical solutions, and if the president's proposed measures were insufficient, they would pursue a legal battle to force the government to amend laws. Specifically, they demanded limits on refugee numbers and the removal of all illegal immigrants within two years.

ActionSA KZN leader and mayoral candidate, Zwakele Mncwango, supported the march, calling for an end to domestic violence and abuse. He pointed out that men must take responsibility for their roles and behaviors, noting that violence against women is never justified. Mncwango urged men to lead by example, demonstrating respect and addressing abusive behavior within their families and communities.